Trust finances need to be investigated

Following the serious news of the Doncaster & Bassetlaw NHS Foundation Trust’s financial problems, Don Valley MP Caroline has called for a full investigation.

“The Trust’s Chief Executive briefed me this morning on this serious situation and I have asked for this to be fully investigated and; if required, for the police to be called in. The Trust needs this mismanagement fully investigated to ensure there has been no fraud, to protect public money and to prosecute the perpetrators if there has been any criminal action by individuals. This will have a serious impact of the Trust, but I am advised that it will not cost staff jobs.”

In relation to Doncaster Council’s £6.9million projected budget shortfall, Ms Flint said: “In recent years, the Council has achieved £58million in cuts; and there are more to follow. So to find that possible cuts in the rate support grant and over £2.5million in extra costs on social care contracts due to the increase in the minimum wage; is a further pressure on services to residents. It is vital the Government decides that if it believes in achieving the Living Wage, that it fully funds the transition so that one person’s wage increase doesn’t cost another person their job.”

The MP has contacted Alan Billings office to seek a response to the latest HMIC report. Said Ms Flint: “I know the Commissioner has tried to protect police and PCSO numbers in Doncaster, so it is very pressing that he advises MPs on what steps he is taking to meet the criticisms levelled by the HMIC.”